Climbing Pikes Peak: Thanks to an incredible opportunity afforded by his head coach for all the seniors, Cole took on the challenge of climbing Pikes Peak in Colorado. This transformative experience pushed him beyond his limits, strengthened team bonds, and served as a powerful metaphor for overcoming challenges throughout the season.

Epic Comeback Victory: In one of the most memorable games of the season, Cole led an 18-point comeback against Central Michigan. The game culminated in a decisive quarterback sneak for the winning touchdown, followed by his iconic "thumbs up, thumbs down" Gladiator celebration. This moment encapsulated the grit and perseverance the team demonstrated all year and solidified his leadership role on and off the field.

McLaren Health Internship: Cole had the privilege of interning with McLaren Health, where he worked closely with the CEO and CFO. This experience provided hands-on exposure to strategic decision-making and leadership at a corporate level. It enhanced his understanding of organizational dynamics and prepared him for professional life after football, teaching him the value of discipline, communication, and adaptability in high-pressure environments.

This journey has been about more than just statistics—it’s been a blessing for Cole to represent three incredible programs and work alongside amazing teammates and coaches who have shaped him into the player and person he is today.

Enhanced Focus on Football: With fewer academic obligations in the fall, Cole was able to fully immerse himself in football. This extra time allowed him to dive deeper into film study, refine game preparation, and invest in recovery techniques. His routine included stretching, treatment sessions, foam rolling, and alternating between hot and cold tubs to ensure optimal physical performance throughout the season.

Discovering Michigan’s Wonders: Cole explored the natural beauty of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, uncovering some of the state’s most stunning outdoor attractions. From the breathtaking shores of the Great Lakes to the serene landscapes of Miners Beach and the crystal-clear waters of Kitch-iti-kipi, these adventures provided a refreshing balance to the demands of the season and deepened his appreciation for the region.

All-Star Opportunities: Cole has been invited to compete in the College Gridiron Showcase and the Tropical Bowl. These prestigious events will provide opportunities to showcase his skills against top-tier talent, gain invaluable exposure to professional scouts, and further develop as he transitions into the next phase of his career.

Pro Day Preparation: Starting January 2nd, Cole will begin intensive training for his Pro Day at "TEST Football Academy" in New Jersey. Under the guidance of QB coach Tony Racioppi, he will focus on quarterback-specific development while also engaging in strength and conditioning training. His preparation will include mastering Pro Day tests such as the 40-yard dash, broad jump, vertical jump, 5-10-5 drill, and 3-cone drill. Additionally, Cole will collaborate with his receivers to run a polished Pro Day script featuring routes on air, ensuring he is fully prepared for this critical showcase.

Securing Representation: Cole is actively searching for an agent who aligns with his values, career goals, and vision for the future. Finding someone he trusts to effectively guide him through the process of becoming a professional football player is a critical step in navigating this journey and maximizing the opportunities ahead.

Overall (2019-2024): Over the course of his collegiate career, Cole was the starting QB and competed in 37 consecutive games, for a total of 46, completing 734 of 1,265 passes (58.0%) for 7,980 yards and 47 touchdowns. On the ground, he contributed 605 rushing yards on 220 attempts and scored nine touchdowns, demonstrating his versatility as both a passer and a rusher. These numbers reflect countless hours of preparation, hard work, and growth on and off the field.

Rutgers University (2019–2021): Cole began his collegiate football career at Rutgers, where he appeared in nine games over three seasons. During that time, he completed 21 of 31 passes for 165 yards and one touchdown, gaining valuable experience at the collegiate level.

University at Buffalo (2022–2023): Transferring to Buffalo gave Cole the chance to step into a starting role and immediately contribute to the team’s success. Over two seasons, he started 25 games and completed 474 of 833 passes for 5,139 yards and 31 touchdowns. In 2022, he made program history by becoming only the third quarterback to surpass 3,000 passing yards in a single season, finishing with 3,030 yards, 18 touchdowns, and an average of 233.1 passing yards per game. In 2023, Cole followed up with 2,109 passing yards and 13 touchdowns, while also adding 180 rushing yards and two scores on the ground, showcasing his ability to lead a balanced and productive offense.

Eastern Michigan University (2024): Cole’s final collegiate season at EMU allowed him to showcase his ability to adapt and lead in a new environment. He started all 12 games, completing 240 of 402 passes (59.7%) for 2,684 yards and 15 touchdowns, including a season-long pass of 79 yards. Cole also embraced a more dynamic role in the run game, carrying the ball 136 times for 323 yards and four touchdowns, with a long run of 29 yards. His versatility as both a passer and rusher added a new dimension to the offense, allowing him to contribute in critical moments and keep defenses on their heels.

This journey has been about more than just statistics—it’s been a blessing for Cole to represent three incredible programs and work alongside amazing teammates and coaches who have shaped him into the player and person he is today. He is deeply grateful for the opportunities football has given him to grow, compete, and create unforgettable memories that will stay with him forever. Cole looks forward to seeing what God has in store for him next and thanks everyone who has supported him along the way.